Construction of the Fire Island Bridge was completed in 1964 and although a relatively young structure, (about 60 years old), its concrete deck has suffered from severe chloride ingress resulting in cracks, spalling, and the formation of potholes.

The Fire Island Inlet span cost $10 million to complete and opened to traffic on June 13, 1964.

The design was changed to conform with that of the Great South Bay Bridge, a 600-foot (180 m) steel-arch span with a 60-foot (18 m) clearance.

[4] In 2004, the New York State Department of Transportation began studies on the Fire Island Inlet span after the realization that it was rapidly decomposing due to flaws in the cement during its construction.

It is assumed that the new bridge will be built to the west of the current structure; the new span will be four lanes, two southbound and two northbound.